Assistant Chief Engineer

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Data Center Assistant Chief Engineer Job Description

Position Overview

A Data Center Assistant Chief Engineer is responsible for supporting the Chief Engineer in managing the critical infrastructure and mechanical/electrical systems that ensure continuous uptime and optimal performance of data center operations. This mission-critical role demands extensive technical expertise in high-availability environments where system failures can result in significant business impact.

Primary Responsibilities

Critical Systems Management The Assistant Chief Engineer oversees the operation and maintenance of mission-critical data center infrastructure including redundant HVAC systems, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), emergency generators, electrical distribution systems, fire suppression systems, and building management systems (BMS). They ensure all systems maintain 99.99%+ uptime through rigorous preventive maintenance and proactive monitoring.

24/7 Operations Support This position requires managing round-the-clock operations to maintain continuous service availability. Responsibilities include coordinating shift schedules, responding to critical alarms and emergencies, implementing hot-swap procedures for equipment replacement without downtime, and maintaining detailed incident logs and reporting systems.

Preventive and Predictive Maintenance Developing and executing comprehensive maintenance programs for all critical infrastructure is essential. This includes thermal imaging inspections, power quality analysis, load testing of backup systems, filter changes, oil analysis, battery monitoring, and documentation of all maintenance activities in CMMS platforms.

Capacity Planning and Energy Management The Assistant Chief Engineer monitors power and cooling capacity, tracks utilization trends, and provides input on infrastructure expansion planning. They implement energy optimization strategies, monitor Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) metrics, and identify opportunities to improve efficiency while maintaining redundancy requirements.

Team Leadership and Training Supervising and mentoring facilities technicians and engineers includes developing technical competencies, ensuring proper safety procedures, coordinating cross-training programs, and acting as Chief Engineer when needed. Strong leadership in high-pressure situations is critical.

Vendor and Change Management Managing relationships with equipment manufacturers, service contractors, and utility providers is essential. The role includes overseeing planned maintenance windows, coordinating system upgrades with minimal impact, reviewing and approving change requests, and ensuring all work meets Tier III/IV data center standards.

Required Qualifications

Education and Experience Typically requires 7-10 years of experience in critical facilities or data center environments with at least 2-3 years in a supervisory capacity. A bachelor's degree in electrical or mechanical engineering, facilities management, or related technical field is preferred, though equivalent experience may be considered.

Technical Expertise Comprehensive knowledge of data center infrastructure is essential, including:

• High-voltage electrical systems (480V/277V, 13.2kV distribution)
• UPS systems (500kW+ capacity), battery banks, and power distribution units
• N+1, 2N, and 2N+1 redundancy configurations
• Precision cooling systems (CRAC/IDAPR DX Systems)
• Diesel generators and automatic transfer switches (ATS)
• Fire suppression systems (FM-200, Inergen, pre-action sprinkler)
• Environmental monitoring and BMS platforms

Certifications and Licenses Required certifications often include stationary engineer license (appropriate class for facility size), electrical license, and data center-specific credentials such as Certified Data Centre Professional (CDCP), Data Center Certified Associate (DCCA), or equivalent. OSHA safety certifications and arc flash training are typically mandatory.

Critical Competencies Success requires exceptional troubleshooting abilities under pressure, strong understanding of ITIL change management processes, proficiency with CMMS and DCIM (Data Center Infrastructure Management) software, excellent documentation skills, and clear communication with both technical teams and business stakeholders. Flexibility for on-call rotations and emergency response is essential.

Work Environment

Data center environments require working in temperature-controlled spaces with significant background noise from cooling equipment. Physical requirements include the ability to lift 50+ pounds, work on ladders, and navigate tight spaces. The role demands strict adherence to safety protocols, including proper PPE usage and lock-out/tag-out procedures for high-voltage work.

This position does not provide visa sponsorship. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Estimated compensation for this position:

This range is an estimate and actual compensation may differ. Final compensation packages are determined by various considerations including but not limited to candidate qualifications, location, market conditions, and internal considerations.

Location:

If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply, even if you don’t meet all the requirements. We’re interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!

Personalized benefits that support personal well-being and growth:

JLL recognizes the impact that the workplace can have on your wellness, so we offer a supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes mental, physical and emotional health. Some of these benefits may include:

• 401(k) plan with matching company contributions

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care

• Paid parental leave at 100% of salary 

• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays

• Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay

At JLL, we harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to efficiently accelerate meaningful connections between candidates and opportunities. Using AI capabilities, we analyze your application for relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications to generate valuable insights about how your unique profile aligns with the specific requirements of the role you're pursuing.

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Accepting applications on an ongoing basis until candidate identified.